The Development of Dogma: A Systematic Account

The Development of Dogma explores the nature of dogmatic statements and their development, focusing on the Council of Nicaea and the New Testament. It discusses the philosophical presuppositions of dogma, the historicity of human knowledge, and the irreformability of dogma. It also examines the Church's dogma about dogma and its role in understanding revealed truth.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2024
Publisher: The Catholic University of America Press

The Development of Dogma delves into the essence of dogmatic statements and the factors that contribute to their evolution. It pays close attention to the emergence of this form of dogmatic pronouncements during the Council of Nicaea,while also highlighting how it is anticipated in the New Testament. By placing dogma and its development within the broader context of Scripture, Tradition, and Magisterium, Fr. Mansini explores in depth how the Church discerns between genuine advancements and distortions of the divine word.

This work holds immense significance in our contemporary era, particularly for its insightful exploration and robust defense of the philosophical underpinnings of dogma. Often taken for granted, these presuppositions delve into fundamental philosophical questions such as the nature of knowledge, the reliability of names, and the diverse logical frameworks employed to understand the relationship between development and a closed revelation. Furthermore, The Development of Dogma addresses the historical dimension of human knowledge, emphasizing the role of dogma in countering the extreme relativism that might be inferred from the historical nature of man. It also examines the Church's dogma about dogma, articulated at the First Vatican Council. The book delves into the role of certain fundamental concepts in understanding the possibility of the irreformability of dogma, which are accessible to all human beings and facilitate a trans-cultural and trans-temporal reception of revealed truth.

In conclusion, The Development of Dogma is a profound and indispensable contribution to the study of theology and philosophy. By examining the nature of dogmatic statements, their historical development, and their philosophical foundations, Fr. Mansini provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the Church's teachings. This work is a valuable resource for scholars, theologians, and anyone interested in exploring the complex dynamics of religious belief and its evolution.

Weight: 314g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780813237459